We’ve been running our work experience placements for students of all genders for three years. In early mixed-gender placements groups, girls were woefully underrepresented. The few that did take part, were reluctant to speak up and be heard in a room full of male peers (a challenge many adult women will be familiar with too!).

To combat this, we partnered with a handful of local schools to run a work experience programme exclusively for girls. Our aim is to make them feel more comfortable and confident. We also want to give them the opportunity to be inspired by the great women who already have thriving careers with us.

We’ve had some great feedback, with girls sharing that we’ve inspired them to look into a career in energy following a work experience placement with us.

Our most recent placement was in May, where we welcomed 11 more girls from the Penwortham Girls’ High School.

During their placement they spent at day at the Academy learning about the different craft and engineering opportunities. They met some of our apprentices too.

They also spent time with our design engineers, digital and technology teams, and met members of our women empowered colleague-led resource group.

They joined our customer agents in our call centre listening to real-life calls and spent time at Salford University learning about research into clean energy initiatives and reducing carbon emissions.

Assistant head teacher at the school, John Ramsdale, said:

“One of our key priorities is to promote STEM subjects and to encourage pupils to pursue STEM careers.

"We’ve been incredibly fortunate to work alongside Electricity North West to create an amazing work experience opportunity for our girls.

"The students gain an insight into the various careers and roles available through interesting and engaging, often hands-on tasks and activities, alongside employees.

"Everyone who took part has returned to school with a glowing report about the work experience and a genuine interest and excitement about pursuing a STEM career.”